Cultural Misunderstandings Research Articles

Indonesian mosaic: the essential need for multicultural education

Purpose This desk research critically reviews the existing literature to be dialogued with interviews with several experts on multicultural education in Indonesia to provide input for policymaking and practical strategies. Through a systematic review of academic literature, policy documents and reports, this study aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with multicultural education and propose action-based and actionable solutions to promote tolerance, understanding and unity among diverse cultural groups. Design/methodology/approach Using a systematic review methodology, this study analyzed existing literature and involved semi-structured interviews with several experts on multicultural education in Indonesia. By searching academic databases and online repositories, relevant literature was synthesized to generate insights into the current state of multicultural education, key challenges and potential solutions. Thematic analysis identified recurring themes and patterns across the literature, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding multicultural education in Indonesia. Findings This research highlights the importance of promoting tolerance and unity among diverse cultural groups in Indonesian education, highlighting curriculum reform, teacher training and community engagement, despite institutional barriers and sociocultural prejudices. Practical implications The findings of this study suggest that to maximize the impact of multicultural education in Indonesia, there is a need for comprehensive teacher training programs, equitable resource allocation and localized curricula that reflect Indonesia’s cultural diversity. Policymakers should focus on developing strategies that address the unique challenges of implementing multicultural education in diverse regions, ensuring that all students have access to culturally relevant and inclusive education. Social implications The successful implementation of multicultural education has the potential to promote social harmony and inclusivity in Indonesia by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. Addressing the identified challenges and gaps could lead to more cohesive and tolerant communities, reducing social tensions and conflicts rooted in cultural misunderstandings. This research calls for sustained efforts to ensure that multicultural education becomes a cornerstone of Indonesia’s educational system, contributing to the country’s broader goals of unity in diversity. Originality/value This research contributes to existing literature on multicultural education by synthesizing insights from diverse academic sources. By systematically reviewing literature, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of challenges and opportunities in Indonesia and provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, educators and stakeholders. Emphasizing the importance of promoting tolerance and unity, this study offers practical strategies for realizing these goals in Indonesian society.

A review of multicultural communication dynamics in the U.S.: Highlighting challenges and successful strategies in a diverse society

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of multicultural communication dynamics in the United States, focusing on the challenges and strategies pertinent to diverse societal contexts. The main objectives were to explore theoretical frameworks, historical evolution, and current trends in multicultural communication, alongside identifying key challenges and effective strategies. The methodology encompassed a systematic review of literature, including peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and reports, with a focus on themes of anti-racism, equity, inclusion, and social justice in multicultural communication. Content and thematic analysis was employed to assess publication productivity and identify major themes. Key findings revealed the significance of various theoretical frameworks in understanding multicultural dynamics, with a historical shift from monolithic to inclusive communication approaches. Major challenges identified include language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and differing communication styles. Effective strategies highlighted include cultural sensitivity training, inclusive policies, and leveraging technology. The study also underscored the role of policy and regulation in shaping multicultural communication practices. The study emphasizes the complexity of multicultural communication in the U.S., suggesting practical recommendations for enhancing communication in diverse environments. These include implementing cultural competency training, adopting inclusive communication policies, and leveraging technology for barrier reduction. Future research directions proposed focus on longitudinal studies of communication strategies, the impact of emerging technologies, and cross-cultural comparative studies. This comprehensive analysis aims to contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society through improved multicultural communication practices.

Defiant Culture - one of the Main Pillar of Twenty-Year Resistance in Afghanistan

The current work attempts to explore the role and importance of the culture in power politics and shows how power is legitimized by the culture. In fact, culture and power are very intertwined and the whole structure of the cultural traditions rule and customs are developed by and represents the power division inside the culture and its people. Research claims that understanding the culture from inside give us the opportunity to better understand the power relations inside the society and accordingly is beneficial for policy makers will it be inner politics or the international one. The work is interdisciplinary and consists of politics and cultural studies fields. It uses the theoretical framework-an interesting mix of theories from both fields to explain the relationship and behaviour of the political and cultural variables of the research. Article chose to do to case studies and together with comparative analyses and content analyses find out common and different trends. It avoids discussions how just or fair was the whole operation in Afghan or Ukraine case but it assess how correctly was those operations planned and realized from the point of view of power culture relationship and how cultural understanding or misunderstanding contributes in achieving political goals in such a cases.

Development and implementation determinants of competency frameworks for mental health clinicians and service providers working with youth: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionDespite high prevalence, access to mental healthcare for Canadian youth is limited, with less than 20% receiving adequate treatment. Marginalised and at-risk youth face particular challenges, including cultural misunderstandings, long...

Socio-cultural adaptation of Mental Health First Aid to insular religious communities: the case of ultra-Orthodox society in Israel

ABSTRACT Objective The introduction of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in Israel has required a dynamic adaptation of the curriculum to the local social, cultural and religious context. The adaptation to the Jewish ultra-Orthodox community has been particularly rigorous and challenging. This article aims to analyse this process, its principles and steps, as well as the challenges and dilemmas it entails. Method The article employs a qualitative case study design, specifically, the instrumental case study. The adaptation procedure includes five steps: engaging local experts, organising focus groups, collaboration with communities, pilot testing in diverse communities, and iterative feedback loops. The article draws primarily on the perspectives of 45 community members, rabbis and health professionals who participated in four focus groups. Results The adaptation in ultra-Orthodox society addressed stigmatisation, silencing and concealment of mental health issues; gender segregation; educational gaps; and cultural misunderstandings of healthcare approaches. We demonstrate the need to modify the language, scenarios and examples in the curriculum, and engage with religious leaders and educational institutions. This process raises professional and ethical dilemmas, such as how MHFA should approach topics that remain unspoken in ultra-Orthodox communities. Discussion This case demonstrates that cultural adaptation is vital but may be insufficient. Attention should also be paid to social and structural forces, such as social hierarchies and systemic discrimination. A structurally competent approach should be adopted. This is the first case of accommodating MHFA for an insular religious group. It can contribute to adapting MHFA to other insular, encompassing, high-tension religious communities worldwide.

The Differences in Time Perception between China and Japan: An Analysis based on Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory

In response to President Xi Jinping's "Belt and Road" initiative, it is crucial to enhance relationships with neighboring trade partners, especially Japan, to further promote the healthy development of the global economy and build a community with a shared future for mankind. Despite the profound impact of World War II on Sino-Japanese relations, the trade ties between China and Japan have become increasingly close since the reform and opening up, demonstrating the potential and necessity for cooperation between the two countries. Therefore, this paper will utilize the Uncertainty Avoidance Dimension from Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory to analyze the cultural differences in time management between China and Japan. Through this analysis, the paper aims to explore how to optimize communication between Chinese and Japanese enterprises, improve work efficiency, and eliminate cultural misunderstandings, thereby fostering the deepening of Sino-Japanese relations.

Enhancing Cultural Competence in Military English Training: Addressing Discrimination and Fostering Inclusivity in Romania

This article explores the enhancement of cultural competence in military English training within the Romanian Naval Forces, focusing on combating discrimination and fostering inclusivity. Recognizing the pivotal role of English as a lingua franca in international military operations, particularly among NATO allies, the paper argues for a comprehensive approach to integrating cultural awareness into language education. It details practical strategies and activities designed to overcome common cultural challenges, such as language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and stereotypes. The article also presents scenario-based training exercises that simulate real-world interactions with NATO forces, thereby attempting to prepare Romanian personnel for effective and respectful communication in diverse settings. These strategies are aimed at creating a more inclusive and operationally effective military force by enhancing mutual understanding and respect among international partners.

Assessing the Lateral Violence among Nurses at Jinnah Hospital Lahore

Background: Lateral violence, also known as horizontal hostility, significantly impacts the healthcare sector, particularly affecting nurses. This form of workplace violence includes behaviors such as bullying, verbal abuse, and psychological harassment among colleagues, leading to a hostile work environment and compromised patient care. Objective: To assess the prevalence and causes of lateral violence among nurses at Jinnah Hospital Lahore. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over six months involving a convenient sample of 160 nurses at Jinnah Hospital Lahore. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to assess lateral violence. Descriptive statistics were applied using SPSS version 25 to analyze the data. Results: Among the nurses surveyed, 22.5% reported often being treated with courtesy and respect by coworkers, while 51.9% rarely experienced such treatment. Misunderstandings caused by cultural differences were identified as a major cause of lateral violence by 65.0% of participants, and 56.9% cited the unwillingness of coworkers and leaders to intervene as a significant factor. Additionally, 50.0% of participants admitted to often losing patience and being less polite to coworkers. Conclusion: The study highlights the high prevalence of lateral violence among nurses at Jinnah Hospital Lahore, primarily driven by cultural misunderstandings and lack of intervention. Addressing these issues through targeted educational programs and leadership training is essential to create a more respectful and supportive work environment.

Spaycations: A Qualitative Study of Veterinarians’ Motivations And Perceived Impacts of Remote Volunteer Spay Neuter

Increasingly, veterinarians skilled in High Quality High Volume Spay Neuter (HQHVSN) are invited to volunteer their surgical services in distant low-resource communities on trips that have become casually known as “spaycations.” While these trips are numerous, there is little research on veterinarians’ motivations for participating and their perceptions of the impacts these clinics have on communities they visit. The current study was open to veterinarians who work in or are trained in HQHVSN whether or not they had been on a spaycation trip. For the purpose of this study, a spaycation is defined as an unpaid or minimally paid trip from a high resource area to a low or moderate resource country or area to provide spay neuter services that is organized by someone other than the individual surgeon. Forty-one veterinarians responded to an electronic questionnaire containing open-ended questions relating to their thoughts and experiences regarding spaycations and their impacts on the volunteer veterinarians as well as on the animals, clients, communities, veterinary practitioners, and animal populations in the areas visited. A reflexive thematic analysis was conducted in which the veterinarians’ responses were coded inductively for semantic themes using a critical realist approach. Respondents had participated in a variety of spaycations around the world over the past 20 years. Most responding veterinarians were motivated by a desire to make a difference and give back to communities in need as well as the desire to travel and to experience other cultures. Many enjoyed bonding with and learning from other vets and team members on the spaycation, and said that while the trips were exhausting they were also paradoxically energizing, and that they renewed their professional passion. Many veterinarians were concerned by the financial and time commitments associated with participating in spaycations, and these costs had prevented some veterinarians from participating. Further reasons for not participating in spaycations included concerns about stress and burnout and about the continual expectation for veterinarians to volunteer their time. Some veterinarians presented concerns about spaycations producing damaging interactions with the local communities including cultural misunderstandings, distrust, the creation of dependence, colonialism, and White Savior syndrome. Local involvement in the spay neuter event varied, with some events entirely planned and staffed locally and involving training and mentorship of local veterinary professionals and students, while other spaycations included little local involvement. Veterinarians varied in their estimation of the animal population impact of the spaycation and agreed that recurrent or ongoing interventions are necessary for appreciable and sustainable population impacts, but that health impacts on individual animals and their families were important and visible even after a single trip. Thematic analysis identified three main themes, HQHVSN is a special skill set, Colonialism and Cost and Value. Spaycations are a unique way for HQHVSN veterinarians to use their distinctive skills in communities of need. The compelling nature of these trips necessitates conscientious and culturally-sensitive leadership and planning to provide safe, sustainable, community-centered programs with a focus on long-term solutions.

Addressing the challenges of dementia care in Nigeria: A call for a comprehensive national strategy

AbstractDespite the growing prevalence of dementia, driven by an ageing population and compounded by cultural misunderstandings and stigma, Nigeria lacks a coherent national plan to address this issue. The article points out that although Nigeria has enacted policies such as the National Aging Policy, which do not sufficiently address the specific needs of people living with dementia. It underscores the necessity of integrating a dementia strategy within the broader health and social care systems of Nigeria. The article draws on the World Health Organization's Global Dementia Action Plan to elaborates on several critical areas for action, including public health prioritization of dementia, awareness and stigma reduction, improved diagnosis, treatment, care, and support, alongside bolstering support for caregivers. It stresses the importance of a dementia‐friendly infrastructure, research and innovation, and leveraging community support to foster a more inclusive society. Furthermore, the article outlines current state of healthcare and social support systems in Nigeria, pointing to significant gaps in infrastructure, healthcare workforce, and financial mechanisms that hinder effective dementia care. Hence, elevating dementia care as a national health priority, and increasing access to quality care and support, Nigeria is well positioned to mitigate the impact of dementia on families and the person with dementia. The call to action is clear: a national dementia strategy, informed by global best practices and tailored to Nigeria's unique cultural and societal context, is essential for addressing the challenges of dementia care and improving the well‐being of affected individuals and their families in Nigeria.

‘My recovery is in English’: Clients' language choices in multilingual psychotherapy

AbstractBackgroundPsychotherapy is constituted through language. Due to voluntary migration or forced mobility, many people do not have access to therapy in their first language (L1). How multilingual clients manage their languages in therapy is an issue many therapists need to address in their practice. Psychotherapy is about trauma, emotions and identity, and when a multilingual client chooses a particular language, it may influence their emotional expression, cause a cultural misunderstanding, and a distorted presentation of who they are.AimsIn this study, we investigated how clients perceive psychotherapy in a foreign language (LX). We also aimed to provide psychotherapists with more insights into the effect of language choices on the course and outcome of therapy.MethodsWe conducted 30 semi‐structured interviews with multilingual clients who had experience with therapy in LX. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.FindingsThe data revealed that there is not one correlation between language and emotion, and that different backgrounds may lead to different preferences for the language of therapy; for some, LX may be preferred because it provides emotional distance necessary for discussing past trauma; for others, LX feels inadequate for expressing themselves fully.ConclusionsOur data suggest that there is a need for multilingual psychotherapists to learn more about their clients' linguistic and cultural profiles and how they play a role in emotion communication to facilitate a smoother therapeutic process and a more beneficial outcome.

Exploring Social and Legal Barriers to Educational Access for Students with Disorders of Sexual Development (DSDs) in Pakistan

Students in Pakistan with Disorders of Sexual Development (DSDs) face significant legal and social barriers to education. Cultural misunderstandings, economic hardship, and inadequate medical care exacerbate these issues. This paper uses a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine existing research on social and legal constraints affecting educational access for children with DSDs in Pakistan. Key findings highlight critical barriers: cultural misunderstandings, lack of community and family support, and insufficient legal recognition. These findings underscore the need for legislative reform, more inclusive policies, and community engagement to improve access to education for these students.

CROSS CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN HRM

The research paper explores the impact of cross-cultural diversity on Human Resource Management (HRM) practices in contemporary organizations. With globalization intensifying the interaction between individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, understanding how cultural differences influence HRM is critical for maintaining competitive advantage and fostering an inclusive workplace. The study examines key HRM functions, including recruitment, training and development, performance management, and employee relations, through the lens of cultural diversity. The paper aims to provide HR professionals and organizational leaders with actionable insights to effectively manage and harness the potential of a culturally diverse workforce. By analyzing various case studies and theoretical frameworks, the paper highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by cross-cultural diversity. Key challenges include communication barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and differing work values and practices. Conversely, the research identifies opportunities such as enhanced creativity, better problem-solving capabilities, and a broader talent pool. The findings suggest that successful HRM in a multicultural environment requires adaptive strategies, cultural competence, and inclusive policies that respect and leverage cultural differences. Recommendations include implementing cross-cultural training programs, promoting a culture of inclusion, and adopting flexible management styles that accommodate diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of cross-cultural diversity in enriching organizational dynamics and driving sustainable growth.

An Analysis of Translation of Literary Texts under the Guidance of Adaptation Theory— A Case Study of White Teeth (Excerpt)

As an important part of cross-cultural communication, the significance of translating literary works accurately is self-evident. In specific translation practice, how to clear cultural barriers, resolve cultural misunderstandings, and faithfully convey meanings have always been challenges for translators. Literary texts often have a large number of long and difficult sentences while Adaptation Theory advocates conforming to the linguistic characteristics and style of the translated text, which has a certain guiding effect on the translation of English-Chinese literary texts. Based on the translation practice of White Teeth (excerpts), this paper analyzes the specific role of Adaptation Theory in translation practice, with a view to providing specific references for the translation of literary texts.

Contemporary Critical Reflections on Ion Bria’s Vision for Ecumenical Dialogue

In this study, I will expose the perspective of the ecumenical dialogue in the theology of Fr. Ion Bria, one of the well-known Romanians involved in the ecumenical movement. In the first part, after a short introduction, I will present the most important biographical milestones of the Romanian theologian, as well as some details about his activity in the World Council of Churches. Then, in the second part, I will critically present the most important aspects of Bria’s ecumenical theology, as well as the reception of these ideas in contemporary Orthodox theology, in discussion with common witness and eucharistic communion within ecumenical dialogue. In the last part, I will present the critical remarks on ecumenism in Bria’s theology. Through this analysis, I will emphasize important directions that the ecumenical dialogue can exploit today to overcome some historical, cultural or theological preconceptions and misunderstandings.

Deciphering Linguistic Stereotypes in Polandball Comics: A Qualitative Analysis of 'Engrish' and Cultural Representation

Polandball, or Countryballs, are online user-generated comics about geopolitical satire, with countries personified in spherical characters. One of the most important aspects of Countryball memes is the non-standard English, or Engrish, used in the conversations between characters. This research delves into the Engrish phenomena by collecting and qualitatively examining 200+ comics in the subreddit r/polandball, proposing plausible causes of the phenomena, and raising concerns regarding the implications of the exhibited linguistic stereotypes. The investigation figures out that the language choice in Polandball comics on Reddit generally ranged between serious cultural misunderstanding and code-switching of English with another language. It is concluded that the linguistic stylizations of non-standard English in Polandball comics might be rooted in certain cultural and racial stereotypes and might further reinforce these biased cross-cultural perceptions. The research shed light on the long-ignored African-American Vernacular English appropriation in Polandball comics, and extensively enumerated and identified the most recent Engrish stylizations in Polandball comics.

The effect of the cultural formulation interview on therapeutic working alliance: a study protocol.

The Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) is designed to improve understanding of patients' mental health care needs. The lack of empirical evidence on the impact and effectiveness of CFI use in clarifying people's perspectives, experiences, context, and identity, and in preventing cultural misunderstandings between migrant patients and clinicians, inspired this study. The objective is to examine the effect of the CFI on the strength of therapeutic working alliances, and the potential mediating or moderating role of perceived empathy. A multicenter randomized controlled trial will be conducted, involving migrant patients, their confidants, and clinicians. The CFI will be administered in the intervention group, but not in the control group. Validated questionnaires will be used to assess therapeutic working alliances and perceived empathy. T-tests and linear regression analyses will be conducted to investigate between-group differences and possible mediating or moderating effects. This study will indicate whether or not the CFI strengthens the therapeutic working alliance between patients and clinicians, as moderated and/or mediated by perceived empathy. Research on the effect and impact of using the CFI in mental health care for migrant patients is important to clarify whether its use strengthens the therapeutic working alliance with clinicians. This can lead to a reduction in cultural misunderstandings and improve mental health care for migrant patients. The results may also be important for the implementation of the CFI as a standard of care. This research protocol was tailored to the needs of patients in collaboration with experts by experience. It was approved by the Ethical Review Board of the Tilburg Law School and registered in the Clinical Trials Register under number NCT05788315. Positive results may stimulate further implementation of the CFI in clinical practice, and contribute to improving the impact of the CFI on the therapeutic working alliances.

A Look at What is Lost: Combining Bibliographic and Corpus Data to Study Clichés of Translation

Abstract This article presents the results of a corpus-assisted study focused on the expression lost in translation in a corpus of English-language online newspapers (NOW), and in two scholarly bibliographic databases (BITRA and SCOPUS). On the surface, the phrase may seem to indicate negative perceptions of translation practice. However, a study of several hundred occurrences of the cliché paints a more complex picture involving a variety of communicative practices and settings. Many occurrences of the phrase address, for instance, broader issues of cultural and interpersonal misunderstanding. In such cases, the perceived failure to establish a meaningful connection can often be ascribed to the absence of attempts at mediation or transmission, thus signalling recognition that the greatest losses occur not because of, but by lack of translation. In addition, the data indicate that lost in translation’s varied usage patterns can be understood in terms of two competing metaphorical frames, namely one of transportation and one of orientation: in translation, one can lose something, but one can just as well get lost. The implications of both metaphorical mappings are further addressed with reference to the issue of visibility, and to discussions about the proper scope of translation studies research.

EXPLORING COMMUNICATION DYNAMICS AT AN INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY: AN INTERVIEW-BASED STUDY

This qualitative study investigates the communication culture within this corporation through interviews to elucidate its communication style, challenges, and mitigation strategies. Participants emphasized the importance of verbal communication for relationship-building and feedback solicitation, alongside acknowledging the impact of cultural diversity on communication dynamics. The study observes the utilization of various communication channels, including faceto-face interactions, emails, and virtual meetings, with differing levels of effectiveness. Challenges identified encompass hierarchical dynamics, hindering open communication across different levels of authority, and cultural misunderstandings from diverse backgrounds, leading to occasional communication breakdowns. Understanding these complexities provides insights for addressing communication challenges within organizations. The implications of this research extend to the development of frameworks for fostering inclusive and productive communication cultures, facilitating interactions and enhanced collaboration within the company and similar `organizations. This research underscores the importance of proactive communication strategies tailored to the specific needs and contexts of this engineering corporation. By implementing targeted interventions, such as cultural sensitivity training and establishing clear communication protocols, organizations foster a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect. Additionally, leveraging technology to enhance communication effectiveness, such as through the implementation of collaboration platforms and virtual communication tools, can facilitate seamless interactions across diverse teams and geographical locations. Ultimately, the findings of this study contribute to the broader discourse on organizational communication, offering practical insights for navigating the complexities of communication within diverse workplace environments. Through continuous evaluation and adaptation of communication practices, organizations can cultivate an inclusive and resilient communication culture, driving innovation, productivity, and long-term success.

COMMUNITY AND CROSS CULTURAL PHYCHOLOGY

Community psychology is a field of psychology that focuses on the relationship between individuals and their communities. It seeks to understand how social and environmental factors can influence mental health and well-being. Cross-cultural psychology is a subfield of psychology that studies the similarities and differences in human behaviour across cultures. These two fields of psychology intersect in the study of cross-cultural communities. Cross-cultural communities are those that are made up of people from different cultures. These communities can be found in both urban and rural settings, and they can be composed of immigrants, refugees, or people who have simply chosen to live in a community that is different from their own culture. Cross-cultural communities can face several challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and cultural misunderstandings. These challenges can have a negative impact on the mental health and well-being of community members. Community psychologists can play a valuable role in helping cross-cultural communities. They can work to improve communication and understanding between people from different cultures. They can also help to develop programs and services that meet the needs of the community. One example of a community psychology program that is designed to help cross-cultural communities is the Refugee Mental Health Program in the United States. This program provides mental health services to refugees and immigrants who are struggling to adjust to life in the United States. The program also provides education and support to community members about refugee and immigrant mental health issues. Another example of a community psychology program that is designed to help cross-cultural communities is the Intercultural Community Development Program in Canada. This program works to build bridges between different cultural groups in Canadian communities. The program provides training and resources to community leaders and organizations on how to promote intercultural understanding and respect.